CVE-2017-18585 in posts-in-page Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The posts-in-page plugin before 1.3.0 for WordPress has ic_add_posts template='../ directory traversal.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/01/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-18585 affects the posts-in-page plugin for WordPress versions prior to 1.3.0, presenting a critical directory traversal flaw that enables unauthorized access to sensitive files and system resources. This vulnerability resides within the plugin's template handling mechanism where the ic_add_posts parameter fails to properly validate or sanitize user input, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths through the template parameter. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and improper path resolution within the plugin's codebase, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged to access arbitrary files on the server.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the template parameter in the ic_add_posts shortcode functionality. When an attacker crafts a malicious request containing directory traversal sequences such as '../' within the template parameter, the plugin processes these sequences without proper sanitization, potentially allowing access to files outside the intended directory structure. This flaw falls under the CWE-22 category of Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, commonly known as Path Traversal or Directory Traversal. The vulnerability enables attackers to read sensitive files such as wp-config.php, which contains database credentials and other critical configuration information, or access other system files that should remain protected from unauthorized access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file reading capabilities to encompass potential system compromise and data exfiltration. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain access to WordPress configuration files, database credentials, and potentially other sensitive system information stored within the web server's file structure. This access could lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to modify or delete files, inject malicious code, or establish persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability affects all WordPress installations using the vulnerable plugin version, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited across numerous websites without requiring additional privileges or complex attack vectors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-18585 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to version 1.3.0 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms to prevent directory traversal attacks. System administrators should also implement proper input validation at multiple levels, including application-level filtering of user-supplied data and server-side restrictions on file access permissions. The implementation of web application firewalls and security monitoring can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts by identifying suspicious directory traversal patterns in incoming requests. Additionally, organizations should conduct regular security assessments of their WordPress installations and plugin ecosystems to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) as attackers may use such information to further compromise systems. Regular security updates, proper access controls, and comprehensive monitoring are essential defensive measures that align with industry best practices for preventing directory traversal attacks and maintaining WordPress security posture.